Introduction

Prithvi Theatre is one of the hubs of Mumbai’s intelligentsia. The haunt of film and theatre personalities, poets, painters and artists at large; a visit here is a must just to experience its creative atmosphere. Celebrities from the performing arts interacting with each other, wannabe theatre enthusiasts sipping their Irish coffees, others rehearsing their lines are scenes that’ll greet you on most days. Located in the Juhu area, Prithvi Theatre is tucked away in a quiet by-lane. An understate charm is all pervasive. One can often see Sanjana Kapoor running the show here in a hands on manner. Step into the 'Prithvi Cafe' for a campus ritual - a cup of Irish coffee and take in the ambience.

Prithvi Theatre is a celebration of Prithviraj Kapoor’s vision. A titan in the history in Indian cinema, his heart lay in theatre. He founded Prithvi Theatres in 1944. It signaled the arrival of realism to the Hindi theatre scene. From their base in Bombay, they took many tours throughout India. The travelling troupe of 150 members staged memorable productions across India. Its maiden performance was Kalidasa's classic ‘Shakuntala’. Soon it became a training center for many artistes who went on to become leading lights in Hindi cinema. Out of the early plays that set the benchmark was ‘Pathan’ (1946), which ran for 558 nights. The play was about the friendship between a tribal Muslim (Khan) and a Hindu (Dewan). The story was set in Frontier (NWFP), the place from where Prithviraj originally hailed. This tragic play had the Khan sacrificing his son to save the life of his Hindu friend’s son.

Prithviraj played the lead in all the theater productions. It ran for 16 years uninterrupted till 1960. There was lull subsequently for many years till Prithviraj Kapoor's youngest son Shashi Kapoor and wife Jennifer Kendal revived it in 1978. Shashi had trained as an actor in Prithvi Theatres while Jennifer Kendal, daughter of Laura and Geoffrey Kendal, and the leading actress of their theatre company, Shakespearana. Their common passion for theatre, and a great respect for Prithviraj set the stage for Prithvi Theatre’s revival.

Shashi and Jennifer’s daughter, Sanjana Kapoor, runs the show today. Over the last decade and half, Prithvi Theatre has also brought into its fold a children's workshop, an Art Gallery and an annual theatre festival, titled 'Prithvi Theatre Festival', organized throughout India. It is the mainstay of the theatre scene in Mumbai

In 1995, Govt. of India, issued a commemorative stamp to mark 50 years of 'Prithvi Theatre'.

Special Attributes

Prithvi Theatre is a cultural hub

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Train, Bus and Cab

Enjoyed by

Theatre and culture buffs

Exposure

None

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

All basic facilities available

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Try the Irish coffee

Type of site

Theatre venue